“The modifications of the family structure by this state of affairs is important. The couple feels isolated, surrounded by children who cost them a great deal in many ways. Sometimes they live in harassing conditions. Work in the factory which… — Jean Vanier Copy Share Image
When we start helping the weak and the poor to rise everyone will begin to change. Those who have power and riches will start… — Jean Vanier Copy Share
...Individualistic material progress and the desire to gain prestige by coming out on top have taken over from the sense of fellowship, compassion and… — Jean Vanier Copy Share
To invite others to live with us is a sign that we aren't afraid, that we have a treasure of truth and of peace… — Jean Vanier Copy Share
People are longing to rediscover true community. We have had enough of loneliness, independence and competition. — Jean Vanier Copy Share
The person in misery does not need a look that judges and criticizes but a comforting presence that brings peace and hope and life… — Jean Vanier Copy Share
All of us have a secret desire to be seen as saints, heroes, martyrs. We are afraid to be children, to be ourselves. — Jean Vanier Copy Share
To be free is to put justice, truth and service to others over and above our personal gain or our need for recognition, power,… — Jean Vanier Copy Share
If we love (the poor) people, we want to identify with them and share with them. — Jean Vanier Copy Share
“Sympathies and antipathies . . . Human friendships can very quickly become a club of mediocrities, enclosed in mutual flattery and approval, preventing people… — Jean Vanier Copy Share
A community is only a community when the majority of its members are making the transition from 'the community for myself' to 'myself for… — Jean Vanier Copy Share
Each person is sacred, no matter what his or her culture, religion, handicap, or fragility. Each person is created in God’s image; each one… — Jean Vanier Copy Share
But let us not put our sights too high. We do not have to be saviours of the world! We are simply human beings,… — Jean Vanier Copy Share
Each human being, however small or weak, has something to bring to humanity. As we start to really get to know others, as we… — Jean Vanier Copy Share
“Have patience . . . We are not the masters of our own feelings of attraction or revulsion; these come from places in ourselves… — Jean Vanier Copy Share
The people with the best sense of what is essential to a community, of what gives and maintains its spirit, are often doing very… — Jean Vanier Copy Share
